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BKK Post, April 10, 1998. LABOUR



April 10, 1998. LABOUR

Alien exodus at Songkran expected

The government hopes to drive at least 300,000 alien workers out of the 
country before June with most leaving on a one-way ticket during the 
upcoming Songkran festival.

So far, 120,000 have left peacefully, Trairong Suwannakhiri, the labour 
minister, said after emerging from a National Security Council meeting 
yesterday.

The repatriation was intended to leave room for employment vacancies for 
Thais made jobless by the economic crisis.

Mr Trairong said many employers have cooperated in sending home alien 
workers who include those who did not register for temporary work 
permits. More than one million are believed to be without permits.

The ministry has advised employers in nine industries to tell alien 
workers not to return after taking Songkran holiday leave next week.

This will open up vacancies for up to 300,000 jobs to be taken over by 
Thai workers.

Mr Trairong said security measures must be mapped out to keep the alien 
workers from re-entering the country.

He said the NSC will take drastic measures against those who bring in 
illegal alien labourers. Smugglers of illegal workers will face a 
10-year jail term, employers who hire them a three-year term and people 
who give them shelter five years.

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